NFL 2025 Off-Season: Retirement or Continuing to Play - Good Idea or Bad Idea?

Benefit Information for NFL Retired Player's

Can NFL Players Retire with Great Benefits?

As the NFL season winds down, many players face a pivotal decision—continue their careers or retire from the game they’ve devoted their lives to. Retirement opens new doors, whether it’s spending more time with family, pursuing lifelong passions, or transitioning into careers in coaching, broadcasting, or business. Fortunately, the NFL offers comprehensive retirement benefits to support players long after they leave the field.

Retired NFL players have access to several key benefit programs, including:

• The Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle NFL Player Retirement Plan – Provides pension benefits based on years of service.

• The 88 Plan – Offers medical coverage for former players with permanent disabilities, particularly those affected by neurocognitive conditions.

• The NFL Player Insurance Plan – Covers life, medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible retirees.

• The NFL Player Disability and Neurocognitive Benefit Plan – Provides financial assistance to former players facing medical hardships.

• The Gene Upshaw NFL Player Health Reimbursement Account – Allocates funds based on credited seasons to help cover medical expenses.

• The NFL Former Player Life Improvement Plan – Offers additional support for medical and disability-related costs.

  
  

These programs, funded by NFL clubs, help ensure financial security and healthcare access for retired players, allowing them to focus on life beyond football.

Question for you! Is NFL Retirement a Good idea or Bad idea?

For a full breakdown of these benefits, review the NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement.